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Frequently Asked Questions
Question: What efforts are made to abate asbestos, and what is Design and Construction’s procedure when encountering asbestos during renovation?
Answer: All efforts to abate asbestos are made by the Office of Facilities Management. A vast majority of the asbestos will have been removed prior to the start of construction. A manual which outlines the history of the removal can be found in the school’s main office. Should Design and Construction encounter asbestos during renovation, work is stopped and the Office of Facilities Management is contacted for proper removal and disposal.
Question: How often does a school get renovated?
Answer: The School Board would prefer that each school is renovated every 25 years. Unfortunately, the capital fund is not adequate to ensure a 25 year renovation cycle. The current estimate is 45 years to complete the renovation cycle.
Question: How are school construction and renovations funded?
Answer: School construction is funded by municipal bonds. The sale of municipal bonds is a form of long-term borrowing that spreads the cost of major capital improvements over many years.
Question: How does Design and Construction determine the classroom and instructional space characteristics?
Answer: Design and Construction utilizes a set of standards (room size, material needs, etc.) known as the Educational Specifications, which are created in a collaborative effort by Facilities & Transportation Services, Instructional Services, and the Department of Special Services. Educational Specifications are revised every 3-5 years.
Question: How is the general contractor selected for a construction project?
Answer: Design and Construction pre-qualifies the general contractor for each project. Non pre-qualified contractors are not eligible to bid FCPS projects. The low bidder is typically awarded the contract for construction.
Question: Why are portable classrooms needed during a renovation?
Answer: Due to the nature of occupied renovations, portable classrooms are needed to house classes while their spaces are being renovated. Classrooms within the building are moved and rotated through portable classrooms to facilitate the buildings renovation.
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